We love Christmas markets, the festive cheer they bring and the thrill of finding the perfect present to add to our Three Kings wish list. We love them so much that we used to travel thousands of miles to visit Europe’s most famous markets. Now, we’re delighted to know that there are plenty right here in Spain that are well worth a trip.

Exact dates and, in some cases, locations may vary from year to year. Before planning your trip, we recommend checking each destination’s official programme.

You’ll know you’re getting close to this market when you start spotting people wearing all kinds of wigs. These accessories compete for attention with the Christmas decorations and figurines displayed across the stalls in Plaza Mayor. If you want to make your break as easy as possible, the Sercotel Gran Hotel Conde Duque is a convenient base from which to explore central Madrid. When? Usually from late November until 31 December.

When the Fira de Santa Llúcia in Barcelona opens at the foot of the cathedral, the magic begins. Excitement and festive cheer fill the air as visitors search for the perfect figurine to complete their nativity scene, marvel at the different caganer figures or take home a Tió de Nadal that is sure to delight the children. After exploring the fair, you can check availability at Hotel Atlantis by Atbcn or stay at Sercotel Caspe, both of which have excellent transport links to the city centre. When? Usually from late November until 23 December.

This market becomes a popular meeting point both for those looking for festive goods and for foodies eager to sample traditional sweets and local produce. There is also an ice rink where you can show off your skating skills and a traditional nativity scene with life-size figures. As for where to stay, Sercotel Plaza Feria will be your peaceful retreat whenever you need a break from the lights and Christmas carols. When? Usually from late November until 6 January.

This is the place to come in search of authentic gifts. Jewellery, textiles, prints, toys and glassware are all created by craftspeople working from their own designs. It’s wonderful to see the love they put into their creations, chat to them about how each piece was made and know that you are supporting local businesses. In Valencia, Sercotel Sorolla Palace and Sercotel Valencia Ruzafa will have everything ready for you to unwind after a day spent exploring. When? Usually from late November until 6 January.

Strings of lights, wooden stalls adorned with beautiful decorations and the city’s festive atmosphere come together to create the Bilbao Christmas Market. Add to that a wealth of food, fashion and Christmas decorations from local businesses. The market forms part of the Bilbao Gabonak festive programme, and its exact location may vary from year to year. For your stay, Sercotel Ayala, Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao and Sercotel Arenal Bilbao are three centrally located options with excellent transport links. When? Usually from early December until the days leading up to Three Kings’ Day.

Donostia feels especially magical when its Christmas Market opens and brings together visitors drawn by traditional festive products, whether they are looking for the perfect gift or ideas for decorating their home. You’ll find it along the Paseo del Urumea and in Plaza de Ramón Labayen, within easy reach of your home from home in the city: Sercotel Europa San Sebastián. When? Usually from late November or early December until 6 January.